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    3 Big EV Launches in India This Week: A Turning Point for the Auto Industry

    3 Big EV Launches in India This WeekMahindra will be launching BE 6e and XEV 9e while Honda will launch Activa Electric – Biggest week for EV industry in India
    This week marks a significant moment for India’s automotive industry with the launch of three major electric vehicles (EVs) that promise to reshape the future of mobility. As the country embraces sustainable transportation, Mahindra and Honda are gearing up to unveil groundbreaking products in the EV segment, signaling a major shift towards electrification.
    1 and 2. Mahindra BE 6e and XEV 9e
    Mahindra is set to launch two electric SUVs, BE 6e and XEV 9e, at their highly anticipated Unlimit India event on November 26th in Chennai. These SUVs, built on Mahindra’s INGLO Electric Origin Architecture, are designed with electric-first principles, featuring advanced battery technology, modular designs, and cutting-edge features.
    Mahindra Electric SUVs XEV 9e and BE6e
    Highlights:
    – Up to 79 kWh battery capacity and fast charging from 20% to 80% in 20 minutes.– Advanced tech like triple-screen cockpit, Snapdragon-powered interface, and Level-2 ADAS.– Positioned as high-performance eSUVs with up to 250+ bhp and a futuristic design language.– Fastest made in India electric SUVs
    These launches mark Mahindra’s entry into the premium EV market, aiming to redefine the segment with vehicles that offer luxury-level technology at accessible price points.
    Mahindra INGLO Architecture – BE 6e and XEV 9e
    3. Honda Activa Electric
    Honda is set to launch its first electric scooter in India, the Honda Activa Electric, on November 27th in Bengaluru. This much-awaited EV marks Honda’s entry into India’s booming electric two-wheeler segment, leveraging the immense brand equity of the Activa nameplate.
    Honda Activa Electric Teaser
    Highlights:
    – Based on Honda’s CUV e platform showcased at EICMA 2024.– Equipped with a removable battery system compatible with Honda’s battery-swapping network.– Over 100 kms range per charge, catering to urban commuters.– The Activa Electric is poised to compete with popular electric scooters like Ola S1 and TVS iQube, bringing a trusted brand into the EV fold and broadening the market’s appeal.
    New Honda CUV e
    A Milestone Week for Indian EVs
    With Mahindra’s twin electric SUVs and Honda’s electric scooter, this week represents a significant milestone for India’s transition to EVs. These launches not only cater to the rising demand for sustainable mobility but also reflect the country’s growing capability to produce innovative, world-class electric vehicles.
    As consumers increasingly shift toward electric options, these launches are expected to accelerate the adoption of EVs across both the four-wheeler and two-wheeler segments. The combined impact of these vehicles will likely contribute to reducing emissions, improving air quality, and strengthening India’s position in the global EV market.
    The automotive landscape in India is evolving rapidly, and this week is a testament to how manufacturers are responding to the demand for clean, efficient, and future-ready mobility solutions. More

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    Royal Enfield Goan 350 Launch Price Rs 2.35 Lakh – 4 Colour Options

    Royal Enfield Goan 350The same J-Series powertrain with 20.2 bhp and 27 Nm powers Goan Classic 350, similar to Hunter 350, Classic 350, Meteor 350 and Bullet 350
    If there is one brand that has etched its name in India’s retro classic motorcycle genre, it is Royal Enfield. The iconic motorcycle manufacturing brand has been launching and unveiling motorcycles left, right and centre. One of the most recent unveilings is Goan Classic 350, a Bobber-style motorcycle with a lot of personality. Let’s take a look.
    Royal Enfield Goan Classic 350
    I remember watching an Indian movie where the antagonist flexes that he has arranged for associates from all around India. Representing Goa were characterful men wearing bright colourful clothes with unique blonde hair and a lot of jewellery to showcase their personality. This is not exactly a stereotype as Goa really is extremely vibrant, colourful and youthful with a personality not seen in many places across the globe.
    Royal Enfield Goan 350
    When Royal Enfield was developing a unique characterful motorcycle based on Classic 350, they came up with Goan Classic 350 as its name. Looking at this motorcycle, the name Goan Classic 350 seems very fitting considering how youthful it is. It was also revealed in Goa, at ongoing Motoverse 2024.
    Royal Enfield is spicing things up in design aspect and the efforts are seen in Goan Classic 350. This Bobber-style motorcycle comes with unique colourways and it also features the brand’s new logo. It is positioned as a premium lifestyle vehicle on top of Classic 350. So, it commands a higher price tag as well.
    Royal Enfield Goan 350
    Goan Classic 350 is the fifth motorcycle based on Royal Enfield’s J Platform – Classic 350, Meteor 350, Hunter 350, Bullet 350 and Goan Classic 350. It characterises itself with design elements like a mini ape hanger handlebar, slash-cut exhaust, painted wire-spoke wheels, white wall tyres, unique graphics on bodywork and more.
    Royal Enfield Goan 350
    Similar to 2024 Classic 350, we get LED headlights and turn indicators with Goan Classic 350 as well. As standard, the bike gets a rider seat only, adhering to Bobber genre. The new mini ape hanger handlebar and lower seat height ensure a unique rider’s triangle for an entirely new experience on any Royal Enfield 350cc offering before.
    What else is new?
    Componentry on Royal Enfield Goan Classic 350 is very close to that of Classic 350. Sure Goan Classic 350 gets the new white-walled tyres, for that authentic retro look. Other than that, Goan Classic 350 is very similar to Classic 350 with RSU telescopic front forks, rear twin shock absorbers, single disc brakes at both ends with dual-channel ABS.
    Royal Enfield Goan 350
    Instrument cluster is also the same and has a spot for RE’s Tripper Screen for navigation and other features. The same J-Series 349cc single-cylinder air-cooled engine powers Goan Classic 350, generating 20.2 bhp of peak power and 27 Nm of peak torque, mated to a 5-speed gearbox. Prices start from Rs 2.35 lakh for the single tone colours and Rs 2.38 lakh for the dual tone colour option (ex-sh). More

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    Top 10 Two Wheelers Oct 2024 – Splendor, Activa, Shine, Deluxe, Pulsar, Jupiter, Access

    New Hero Splendor – Ryt To KnowTop 10 two wheelers registered sales of over 14.4 lakh units last month – A growth of over 11% YoY, thanks to Splendor, Activa, Shine in top 3
    The Indian two-wheeler market witnessed strong growth in October 2024, led by top-performing models that cater to diverse customer needs. Total sales across the top 10 two-wheelers showcased a significant year-on-year (YoY) rise, highlighting the industry’s resilience and adaptability.
    Top 10 Two Wheelers Oct 2024 – YoY Performance
    Hero Splendor remained the undisputed leader with sales of 3,91,612 units, a YoY growth of 25.91%, underscoring its popularity in the commuter segment. Honda Activa retained its position as the best-selling scooter, registering 2,66,806 units, an impressive 21.91% YoY growth. It continues to dominate the scooter segment with its unmatched reliability and brand trust.
    Top 10 Two Wheelers Oct 2024 – YoY Performance
    Honda Shine followed closely in the third spot, recording 1,96,288 units sold with a robust 19.99% YoY increase, further strengthening its position as a commuter favourite. Hero HF Deluxe secured the fourth position with 1,24,343 units sold, marking a modest growth of 5.63% YoY. However, Bajaj Pulsar experienced a steep decline, with sales dropping by 30.78% YoY to 1,11,834 units, possibly due to shifting consumer preferences in the sporty commuter segment. TVS Jupiter continued its stronghold in the scooter market, achieving 1,09,702 units sold and a 19.47% YoY growth.
    Suzuki Access emerged as a standout performer with a 31.46% YoY growth, selling 74,813 units, reflecting the growing demand for premium scooters. Bajaj Platina, on the other hand, witnessed a decline of 17.24% YoY, with 61,689 units sold, signaling challenges in its segment. TVS XL, a long-standing favorite in the moped category, saw a marginal drop of 1.47% YoY with 52,380 units sold. TVS Raider rounded off the list with 51,153 units, reflecting a healthy 7.73% YoY growth, appealing to younger riders with its stylish design and performance.
    Top 10 Two Wheelers Oct 2024 – MoM Performance
    Top 10 Two Wheelers Oct 2024 – MoM Performance
    Hero Splendor retained its top position with 3,91,612 units sold, growing by 4.18% MoM. Its consistent sales reflect its stronghold in the commuter segment. Honda Activa followed in second place with 2,66,806 units, posting a modest 1.71% growth, maintaining its dominance in the scooter market. Honda Shine secured third place, registering an impressive 7.95% growth with 1,96,288 units sold, indicating growing demand in the premium commuter segment.
    Hero HF Deluxe showed a robust 9.24% growth, selling 1,24,343 units, reflecting its continued appeal in rural and semi-urban markets. However, Bajaj Pulsar faced a significant decline of 19.65% MoM, with sales dropping to 1,11,834 units. This marks a noticeable dip for the sporty commuter motorcycle, hinting at possible challenges in the segment.
    TVS Jupiter, with 1,09,702 units, recorded a solid 6.58% growth, reaffirming its position as a reliable and feature-rich scooter. Suzuki Access was the standout performer, witnessing a remarkable 39.28% growth, with sales jumping to 74,813 units, highlighting its growing popularity among premium scooter buyers.
    Bajaj Platina also posted strong numbers with a 23.94% growth, reaching 61,689 units, showcasing demand in the entry-level commuter motorcycle space. In contrast, TVS XL saw a 4.71% decline in sales, dropping to 52,380 units, reflecting a slight dip in the moped category. Meanwhile, TVS Raider, with its youthful design and appeal, recorded an impressive 18.21% growth, selling 51,153 units. More

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    Hero Surge S32 Convertible Electric Scooter / Rickshaw – Production Sketch Leaks

    Hero Surge S32 Convertible Electric Scooter / RickshawWith versatility being the mantra, Hero Surge S32 aims to be the perfect self-employed individual’s vehicle across multiple genres
    With a mission to revolutionise Indian last mile mobility segment, Hero MotoCorp owned Surge EV electric mobility subsidiary is set to launch S32 2W-cum-3W vehicle in India soon. Design for the same has been officially patented and we can expect a formal launch sometime in the calendar year 2025. Let’s take a look.
    Surge S32 Electric
    Very few OEMs dare to redefine a segment with groundbreaking innovations. For Surge EV electric mobility startup, their maiden S32 electric 2W/3W convertible vehicle is a defining offering. This is what will define their vehicles in the future, setting a new standard in innovation and problem-solving.
    Hero Surge S32 Convertible Electric Scooter / Rickshaw
    Bankrolled by automotive juggernaut like Hero MotoCorp, Surge S32 seems to be ready to hit production sometime in calendar year 2025. Design patents for the same have been filed in India, showing that the production model could look vastly similar to what Surge EV showed as a concept earlier this year.
    In essence, Surge S32 is a hybrid vehicle that consists of an electric scooter which acts as the front wheel for a non self propelled rear module. This non self-propelled rear module has a battery pack of its own and even an electric motor. This is so that both the scooter and this non self-propelled rear module have independent powertrains.
    Hero Surge S32
    This rear module will be offered with multiple variants – 3W auto rickshaw (S32 PV), a 3W cargo vehicle (S32 LD), a 3W covered cargo vehicle (S32 HD) and a flat-bed 3W cargo vehicle (S32 FB). This unlocks versatility in the commercial 3W segment, giving Surge EV an edge, right from their maiden vehicle.
    Surge S32 combines an electric scooter and an electric 3W commercial vehicle in one package. Because something like this has never been attempted before, Surge has worked with the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways and has created a new vehicle category called L2-5. This new category represents a 2W-3W combi module vehicle, combining an L2 scooter with a non self-propelled rear module.
    Surge S32 different body styles
    How easy is the transition?
    Standalone, Surge S32 electric scooter part looks like a family scooter with youthful design and has shock absorbers at both wheels to bear weight of the non self-propelled rear module. It has a disc brake at the front, which is unique for a 3W CV. Rear module rests on the scooter and the operator is sitting on the scooter’s seat.
    Scooter’s instrumentation is used in 3W mode too, for speedo and other vital readings. The rickshaw body is made entirely out of metal. It is positioned on an AMSEP skateboard consisting of a rugged ladder-frame chassis. Surge S32 promises that the transformation from 2W to 3W or vice-versa can happen with minimal to no effort under 3 minutes on any road conditions.
    Hero Surge convertible EV More

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    Tata Sierra Launch Timeline Confirmed For 2025 – First EV, Then ICE

    Tata Sierra EV ConceptTata Sierra will have a dynamic profile, a mix of signature features and styling bits borrowed from upcoming models like Harrier EV
    Some cars have a timeless design that appeals to a broad segment of users. Tata Sierra was one such product that was a popular choice in the 90s. In its second life, Tata Sierra will be offered in both ICE and EV variants.
    Tata Sierra launch timeline announced
    While the concept version has been showcased at 2020 and 2023 Auto Expo, there was no clarity on the launch timeline. Tata Motors has now revealed Sierra will be available in the market by the end of 2025. This applies to both the ICE and EV variants. However, it is likely that the Sierra EV will be introduced first before the ICE model. A similar approach has already been used for Curvv. Tata is among the carmakers that have ambitious plans for the EV segment.
    Tata Sierra EV Concept
    Information about the launch timeline of Sierra was revealed during the company’s investors meet. Before the launch, Tata could provide a preview of the production version of Sierra in the 3rd quarter of 2025. Timing it with the 2025 festive season will help get everyone’s attention and can also boost the number of bookings.
    New Sierra design – a hint of the old, a touch of the new
    Tata Sierra had some distinctive features such as the wide rectangular rear windows and thick B-pillars. With the new Sierra, these features have been retained and tweaked slightly in line with modern design aesthetics. As seen with the concept models, the B pillar is now thicker.
    Tata Sierra EV Concept
    And the rear windows now have a more noticeable wraparound effect. A black plastic finisher has been used to achieve the wraparound effect. The combo of wide rear windows and a panoramic sunroof will provide truly seamless views of the outside world.
    Tata Sierra EV Concept
    While the original Sierra had fixed rear windows, the new Sierra has standard windows like any other modern SUV. Also, the 3-door format has been replaced with a proper 5-door setup. Other styling bits for the new Sierra will be based on Tata’s new design language being used for its upcoming electric cars like Harrier EV.
    Tata Sierra EV Concept
    Some of the key highlights include full-width LED light bars at front and rear, sleek headlamps, squarish wheel arches, sporty dual-tone alloy wheels and flush door handles. At the rear, the new Sierra has a prominent roof mounted spoiler and a rugged bumper design.
    New Sierra interiors
    New-gen Tata cars offer a comprehensive range of features. The approach will be the same for the new Sierra. The concepts have revealed minimalistic, yet elegant interior spaces. Equipment list is likely to include dual 12.3-inch screens, Tata’s new steering wheel with illuminated Tata logo, wireless charging, ventilated seats, leather upholstery, etc. A wide range of connectivity features will be available. New Sierra will also get a robust ADAS package, improving overall safety of passengers.
    Tata Sierra – Powertrain options
    Sierra EV model is expected to be equipped with a 45 kWh or 55 kWh battery pack, based on the variant. Range is expected to be around 550 km. Sierra EV will have a single motor setup. It will support DC fast charging. The ICE Sierra will use the diesel powertrain that’s currently in use with Harrier and Safari. The petrol variant is expected to get a new 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder, turbo petrol engine. More

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    From Range Anxiety to Charging Myths: Understanding EVs Better

    Hyundai 180 kW DC Fast ChargingEvery powertrain has advantages and disadvantages, but it is important to look at the overall package to make the right selection
    While EVs may seem new, the fact is that EVs had existed well before the first ICE car was commercially produced in the late 19th century. In the US, around 1/3rd of all vehicles were electric by 1900. However, with the introduction of more affordable ICE cars like Ford Model T, electric car sales started to decline.
    Now, more than a century later, the world is witnessing a comeback of electric tech. Brands like Tesla have contributed significantly to ensure faster adoption of electric cars. However, ICE and EV sales data reveals that EVs are still a long way from unlocking their full potential. The general resistance to EVs may be more about perceptions rather than real issues. Let’s take a look at some claims commonly made about EVs and find out if they are true.
    EVs don’t have enough range
    While this may have been true earlier, it is important to note that battery technology has undergone significant advancements in recent years. Furthermore, a lot of research is underway to make battery packs even better in terms of efficiency and safety. As of now, many EVs have a range of over 500 km. Even mass market EVs have a range of around 300 to 400 km. This is adequate for weekly commuting needs or intercity travels. Moreover, with continuously improving EV charging infrastructure, the range anxiety is now actually just a perception issue.
    Charging infrastructure is not ready
    When people form certain perceptions, it becomes quite difficult to change that. It is true that charging infrastructure was quite inadequate when the first EVs came on the roads. But as of now, the charging infrastructure has grown by leaps and bounds. There are now thousands of public EV charging stations in India alone. These can be easily located with the right app.
    Locate over 10,000 charging stations across India in the myHyundai app
    For example, myHynudai app has info about more than 10,000+ EV charging stations currently in India. Hyundai currently offers only the Ioniq 5 EV in India. However, the company will soon expand its EV portfolio to include multiple mass market products including the Creta EV.
    EVs charge slowly
    One of the major disadvantages of EVs can be its slow battery charging speed. Imagine being forced to wait for hours to charge your EV. This situation may be real earlier, but quite a myth with the current-gen battery packs. As a matter of fact, fast charging is one of the key focus areas for EV manufacturers. Current-gen battery packs are capable of recharging up to 80% in just around 30 minutes. And 50 to 100 km can be loaded in just around 10 minutes. By the time you have a coffee, your EV will be refuelled to reach the destination.
    Many EV manufacturers also offer 24/7 roadside assistance. It includes mobile battery charging using a specialized charging vehicle, equipped with a generator. This is a second layer of assurance, in case the battery is completely drained before reaching a charging station.
    EVs are not suitable for Indian roads
    While EVs may appear to be fragile as compared to their ICE counterparts, this is again just a thing of perception. Modern EVs utilize a strong chassis and specialized protective structures to secure the battery pack. For example, ultra-high-strength steel is used for the protective structure around the battery pack. Furthermore, the battery pack is secured to the floor with the use of specialized mounting systems. As far as the advanced, current-gen EVs are concerned, the claim that EVs are not suitable for Indian roads seems like a myth.
    As is evident from above, most of the claims made against EVs seem like a myth. Hopefully, with awareness, people can better understand the truth about EVs. More

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    Royal Enfield Scram 440 Debuts – 6-speed Gearbox, More Power, Torque

    Royal Enfield Scram 440 DebutsThe just debuted Royal Enfield Scram 440 is the spiritual successor of Scram 411 and it will be launched in January 2025
    Iconic motorcycle manufacturer, Royal Enfield, is currently on a roll revealing and launching new motorcycles left, right and centre. The company just launched Interceptor Bear 650 in India, showcased Goan Classic 350 and now, it has debuted Scram 440 at Motoverse 2024 in Goa, which is the spiritual successor of Scram 411. Let’s take a look.
    Royal Enfield Scram 440 Debuts
    Right after showcasing Goan Classic 350 Bobber-style motorcycle, Royal Enfield has taken the veil off its new scrambler. Instead of positioning it on the Sherpa 450 platform underpinning Himalayan 450 and Guerrilla 450, Scram 440 is positioned on the same platform that underpinned Scram 411. There are as many as 5 unique colourways with Scram 440.
    Royal Enfield Scram 440 Debuts
    Unlike its predecessor which derived its powertrain from Himalayan 411, Scram 440 doesn’t derive the Sherpa 450 engine from Himalayan 450. Instead, it is powered by a modified version of 411 block displacing 443cc, courtesy of a 3mm bigger bore on its long-stroke (LS) engine.
    Results of which, Scram 440 now boasts 25.4 bhp of peak power and 34 Nm of peak torque. When compared to Scram 411, performance metrics are up by a total of 1 bhp and 2 Nm. However, the main change over Scram 411 comes in the form of a 6-speed gearbox, replacing the older 5-speed unit.
    Royal Enfield Scram 440 Alloy Wheel
    This should change this motorcycle’s performance characteristics, unlocking better highway cruising speeds. For enthusiasts, main draw for Scram over Himalayan was its lower kerb weight and manoeuvrability. I personally know someone who sold their Himalayan 411 in favour of Scram 411.
    New Variants, Improved Components
    Unlike Scram 411, Royal Enfield Scram 440 comes in two distinct variants – Trail and Force. Trail variant stays true to its name with wire-spoke wheels with block-pattern tyres, while Force variant comes is more road biased as it gets alloy wheels with tubeless tyres.
    Royal Enfield Scram 440 Accessories
    Braking equipment now gets bigger calipers than before. Which is a good thing considering the added performance. There is dual-channel ABS as standard, which is switchable, if rider wants to have some fun off-road. Seat height is 795 mm despite the ground clearance being 200 mm, which is very accessible. It would be nice if Royal Enfield offered a Tripper Screen as standard.
    Overall design and aesthetics are similar to Scram 411. Notable features include knuckle guards, single-piece seat, circular semi-digital instrument cluster, circular fully LED headlight, circular ORVMs, halogen turn indicators and playful dual-tone colours, among others. While an exact launch date has not been announced, Royal Enfield is expected to launch it in January 2025.

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    2025 Suzuki V-Strom SX Launch Price JPY 591,800 (Rs 3.24L) – Gets New Colour

    2025 Suzuki V-Strom SX 250 Sonoma Red MetallicWith a fully-digital instrument cluster, 2025 Suzuki V-Strom SX 250 packs Bluetooth connectivity along with turn-by-turn navigation
    Based on the highly competitive 250cc platform, Suzuki V-Strom SX has been a potent ADV-style motorcycle. In Japan, Suzuki has updated the V-Strom SX for MY25 and gave it a brand new colour apart from outgoing palette. This new colour aims at uplifting V-Strom SX’s overall appeal than before.
    2025 Suzuki V-Strom SX
    If there is one motorcycle lineup in India known to be the most underrated, it has to be Suzuki’s 250cc lineup. Based on this platform, Suzuki sells three body variations – Gixxer 250 (Street Fighter), Gixxer SF 250 (Supersports) and V-Strom SX 250 (ADV-style Tourer). The most expensive of these trio is Suzuki V-Strom SX 250.
    2025 Suzuki V-Strom SX 250 Sonoma Red Metallic
    In Japan, Suzuki just updated its V-Strom SX for 2025 model year with a new colour. At the same time, Suzuki has also updated V-Strom SX’s pricing for MY25 in Japan. Suzuki has revised the price of V-Strom SX from JPY 569,800 (including tax) to JPY 591,800 (including tax). Launch will happen on November 28th.
    In today’s currency exchange rates, this pricing turns out to be Rs 3.11 lakh and Rs 3.24 lakh, respectively. The newly added colour is a striking one. Suzuki calls it Sonoma Red Metallic and is a lovely shade of Red, complementing V-Strom SX’ new-age design. The new Sonoma Red Metallic joins the palette containing Champion Yellow No. 2 and Glass Sparkle Black.
    2025 Suzuki V-Strom SX 250 Colours in Japan
    In India, Suzuki V-Strom SX is among the slow sellers in the market. If we take sales performance in September 2024, V-Strom SX sold 626 units. Having more colours can boost sales proposition of this adventure tourer. As of now, Suzuki Motorcycles India has not made any announcements for colour add-ons or updates for V-Strom SX.
    For context, India-spec Suzuki V-Strom SX 250 gets Champion Yellow No. 2 and Glass Sparkle Black colours that JDM gets. On top of these two, there is a Pearl Blaze Orange shade for India that aims to appeal to young buyers. The new Sonoma Red Metallic might increase the sales proposition in Indian market.
    2025 Suzuki V-Strom SX 250 Sonoma Red Metallic
    Any other changes?
    Apart from the new colour and revised prices, V-Strom SX 250 remains the same. It is still powered by the same SOHC 4V oil-cooled single-cylinder engine that is capable of generating 26.1 bhp of peak power and 22.2 Nm of peak torque, mated to a 6-speed gearbox.
    19-inch front, 17-inch rear alloy wheels wrapped with 100/90 front and 140/70 rear tyres, single disc brake setup at both ends, dual-channel ABS, RSU telescopic front forks, rear mono-shock, tall windscreen, semi-fairing bodywork, LED lighting, fully digital LCD cluster with Bluetooth and navigation are notable attributes. More